When it comes to flooring, there are many options available on the market today. One of the most popular options is engineered hardwood. Engineered hardwood is a type of flooring that is made up of layers of wood that are glued together, with a top layer of hardwood veneer. In this article, we will explore what engineered hardwood is, the benefits of using it, and some tips on how to maintain it.

What is Engineered Hardwood?

Engineered hardwood is a type of flooring that is made up of layers of wood that are glued together. The top layer of the flooring is a hardwood veneer, which is usually made from oak, maple, or cherry. The thickness of the veneer can vary, but it is typically around 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick. The layers of wood underneath the veneer are typically made from plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF).

The Benefits of Engineered Hardwood

1. Durability: Engineered hardwood is more durable than traditional hardwood flooring. The layers of wood underneath the hardwood veneer make the flooring less susceptible to moisture and changes in temperature, which can cause traditional hardwood flooring to warp or buckle.
2. Cost-effective: Engineered hardwood is less expensive than traditional hardwood flooring. Because it is made up of layers of wood, it can be manufactured more efficiently and at a lower cost than solid hardwood.
3. Easy to install: Engineered hardwood is easy to install, especially compared to traditional hardwood flooring. It can be installed using a variety of methods, including floating, glue-down, or nail-down installation.
4. Variety: Engineered hardwood is available in a wide variety of colors, finishes, and styles. This means that you can find a flooring option that will match your style and décor.
5. Eco-friendly: Because engineered hardwood uses less hardwood than traditional hardwood flooring, it is considered to be a more eco-friendly option. Additionally, the plywood or HDF layers underneath the hardwood veneer are often made from recycled materials.

Maintaining Engineered Hardwood

Like any flooring option, engineered hardwood requires some maintenance to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips on how to maintain your engineered hardwood flooring:

• Regular cleaning: Sweep or vacuum your engineered hardwood flooring regularly to remove dirt and debris. Use a damp mop or a cleaner specifically designed for engineered hardwood flooring to remove any stains or spills.
• Avoid excess moisture: Although engineered hardwood is more resistant to moisture than traditional hardwood flooring, it is still important to avoid excess moisture. Clean up spills immediately and avoid mopping with excess water.
• Protect from scratches: Use furniture pads under your furniture to avoid scratching your engineered hardwood flooring. Additionally, avoid wearing high heels or other shoes that could scratch the surface of the flooring.
• Protect from direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause your engineered hardwood flooring to fade over time. Use curtains or blinds to protect your flooring from direct sunlight.
• Refinish when needed: Over time, the hardwood veneer on your engineered hardwood flooring may become worn or scratched. When this happens, you can have the flooring refinished to restore its appearance.

Conclusion

Engineered hardwood is a popular and durable flooring option that offers many benefits over traditional hardwood flooring. It is less expensive, easy to install, and available in a wide variety of styles and colors. Additionally, it is more eco-friendly than traditional hardwood flooring. With regular maintenance, your engineered hardwood flooring can last for many years and continue to look beautiful in your home.

If you are considering engineered hardwood for your home, it is important to choose a reputable manufacturer and installer. Look for a manufacturer that uses high-quality materials and offers a warranty on their products. Additionally, choose an installer with experience in installing engineered hardwood flooring.

When shopping for engineered hardwood, consider the thickness of the hardwood veneer. Thicker veneers can be sanded and refinished more times than thinner veneers, which means that your flooring will last longer. Additionally, look for a flooring option with a durable finish that is resistant to scratches and stains.

Overall, engineered hardwood is a great flooring option for homeowners who want the beauty of hardwood flooring without the high cost or maintenance. With proper care and maintenance, your engineered hardwood flooring can last for many years and continue to look beautiful in your home.